Health Encyclopedia

Anemia of Prematurity

Definition

Anemia is a low level of red blood cells (RBCs). These cells are responsible for picking up oxygen in the lungs and delivering it to the rest of the body. Low levels of RBCs make it difficult for the body to get enough oxygen. If anemia is severe, it can lead to serious health problems.

Anemia of prematurity occurs in babies who are
born earlier
than expected.

Risk Factors

Production of RBCs temporarily slows down in all newborns right after birth—greater effect in premature babies

Blood volume can’t keep up with baby’s growth

RBCs have a shorter lifespan in infants compared to adults

Other factors that may increase the chances of anemia of prematurity include:

Family history of anemia

Complications during delivery

Blood loss during birth

Illness requiring a lot of blood work

Being a twin with twin-to-twin transfusion

Poor diet, particularly low in iron, vitamin B6 or B12 in

Mother during pregnancy

Infant after birth

Symptoms

Mild anemia may have no symptoms. Symptoms of moderate or severe anemia may include:

Pale appearance

Slow, dull activity

Fast or difficulty breathing

Difficulty during feeding

Fast heart rate

Slow weight gain

Period when breathing stops

Diagnosis

You will be asked about your baby’s symptoms and history. A physical exam will be done.

Your baby's blood will be tested. This can be done with blood tests.

A diagnosis will be made based on the blood test. The test results may also help find the cause of the anemia.

Treatment

Treatment will depend on the cause of anemia. Mild anemia may not need to be treated. The doctor will simply monitor your baby’s blood. As little blood as possible will be taken to keep the anemia from getting worse.

Treatment options for anemia of prematurity include:

Optimizing Nutrition

Nutrition plays a big role in the recovery from anemia. The right foods can help the baby’s body increase production of RBCs.

Lack of certain nutrients can also make it difficult for the body to make RBCs. Iron is important in making RBCs. When your baby is a few weeks old, supplemental iron may be added.

Supplemental Erythropoietin

Erythropoietin is a hormone in the body. It encourages the body to make more RBCs. Supplemental erythropoietin may be given to babies with or at risk for anemia. It will gradually help the body make more RBCs.

This treatment is often given in addition to nutrition changes.

Blood Transfusion

Severe cases of anemia may need immediate treatment. A
blood transfusion
will quickly increase the level of RBCs in the infant.

More than one transfusion may be needed.

Prevention

To help reduce your child’s chance of getting anemia of prematurity, take these steps:

Get proper prenatal care throughout your pregnancy

Take steps to prevent premature birth including:

Avoiding alcohol, smoking, and drugs

Eat a healthy, balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables

Keep chronic disease under control

Optimize your baby’s nutrition

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

Anemia of Prematurity. The Hospital for Sick Children website. Available at:
http://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/En/ResourceCentres/PrematureBabies/OverviewofTreatment/TreatmentofOtherConditions/Pages/Treatment-of-Anemia-of-Prematurity.aspx. Updated October 31, 2009. Accessed August 19, 2014.

What is Anemia of Prematurity? Greenwich Hospital website. Available at:
http://www.greenhosp.org/upload/docs/FactSheets/English/pediatric%5Fanemia-premeturity.pdf. Updated April 2006. Accessed August 19, 2014.